Small architectural forms — classification, purpose and main types (60 photos)

Today it is difficult to imagine a modern country estate without small architectural forms. It is they who give the integrity and completeness of the dacha territory. In addition, MAFS give a sense of unity with nature and help to create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. In other words, they provide the conditions necessary for a full rest.

Summary of the article:

The first MAFS appeared in Italy in the Renaissance. During this period, sculptors and architects began to take part in the creation of parks. At the same time, Japanese thinkers and philosophers came to the conclusion that a stone is an important part of any garden, having a sacred and even to some extent symbolic meaning. To this day, no Japanese garden can be imagined without some kind of stone structure.

In Ancient Russia, the tree was reverently treated. At that time, the house plots were decorated with wooden figurines with images of representatives of fairy-tale fauna and heroes of epics.

The use of IAF around the house made it possible to give the garden area a certain stylistic orientation, which today allows you to draw a clear line between existing styles.

The purpose of the IAF

MAF is a component of the yard landscape design, which includes decorative compositions and structures that perform aesthetic and practical functions.

MAF is an ideal addition to any garden and park ensemble. They must meet the following requirements::

Convenience.
An extraordinary design solution.
Beautiful appearance.
Functionality.
Harmony.
Comfort.
The quality of materials.
Constructiveness.
Moderate cost.

The main types of IAF , depending on the purpose

Small architectural forms have two purposes:

Their appearance is obliged to give aesthetic pleasure.
They must be functional in order to provide a suitable atmosphere for rest and relaxation.

MAFS are divided into MAFS intended for:

For zoning space

Sometimes there is a need to visually or physically highlight a certain part of the site. The solution will be the following types of IAF:

small decorative bridges;
arched structures;
protective structures;
fountains and fountains;
topiary;
sculpture exhibitions;
vases;
decorative support walls;
stairs.

Various fencing structures, small bridges and arched structures divide the territory into zones. In addition, they are a unique garden decor that will emphasize the style and individuality of the suburban area.

Topiars are special MAFS in the form of figures made of living trees and bushes. The design of such architectural forms can be very different.

Sculptures for parks are understood not only as the usual standard single sculptures or several sculptures, but also, for example, a bird bath in the middle of a pond or a miniature mill.

For the arrangement of recreation areas

This category includes gazebos, park furniture sets, benches, swings, barbecues, playgrounds for sports or games.

The most widespread variety of MAFS are gazebos. They provide conditions for a secluded rest and are divided into open and glazed.

Architectural forms for playgrounds are no less popular. After all, adults are much calmer when children are busy playing games, and not loitering around.

To ensure convenience

Lanterns, urns, fountains with drinking water belong to this group of MAFS.

Types of MAF according to the application of plants

Photos of small architectural forms clearly illustrate that all MAFS are divided into two types:

MAF with the use of plants;
MAFS that do not provide for plants.

We have considered the last type above, so we will not dwell on it.

MAFS requiring the presence of plants

Trellises. These are supporting structures for ampel-type plants made of metal alloys or wood. They can act both as gazebos and as fences.

Pergolas. These are canopies, the roof of which is a lattice covered with climbing shrubs and flowers. Pergolas can look like a separate structure or an annex to the main building.

Vine, clematis, hops and even roses usually act as plants for such MAFS. Inside, you can arrange a table with benches and a barbecue – this will turn this element of landscape decor into a cozy gazebo.

Bosquets. They are green "gazebos", the walls of which are formed from specially trimmed trees and bushes. A similar kind of MAF came to us from France. In the 16th and 17th centuries, no French garden and park ensemble could do without a bosquet.

Arches. Semicircular arched structures decorated with ampel plants serve as excellent protection from hot sunlight.

Types of MAF in appearance of the material used

Depending on the type of material , small architectural forms are divided into:

metal;
concrete;
wooden;
stone;
made from vines.

There are MAFS that combine several materials. An example of such a landscape decor can serve as a gazebo – stone, wood, and metal can be used in its construction at the same time.

Unusual design ideas for MAF

Pavilion. This is a covered structure erected on a wooden or concrete base. Most often gazebos are made of wood, metal or brick. It is also possible to combine several materials at once. The configuration of such MAFS can be different: rounded, square, rectangular, hexagonal, etc.

Rotunda and gazebo. These indoor architectural forms are designed for private reflections or private tea parties. Such MAFS are echoes of the classical style. They are rarely found on an ordinary country plot.

Belvedere. They are an observation deck, along the perimeter of which support columns are located. Therefore, the highest place is chosen for their placement. The first belvedere appeared in Western Europe in the Middle Ages.

Decorative lanterns. Today they are quite popular with landscape designers. They are installed in the most important compositional places.

Furniture sets for garden and park ensembles. The representatives of this type of MAF are benches and tables. Such furniture can be located anywhere.

MAF for children. Children's architectural forms — a variety of swings, slides, horizontal bars, etc. – are designed for children's recreation and games.

No garden or park can do without MAF today. If you are wondering if they are needed in your backyard, then the answer is unequivocal – they are needed. You can buy them in the store or make them yourself. It all depends on your preferences. Go ahead and then your garden will become the object of your pride and envy of your neighbors.